Flax
Flax is an annual or perennial plant in the Linaceae family. The Linum genus comprises almost 200 species, mostly found in temperate and subtropical regions of the northern hemisphere. The various species are all herbaceous plants with fibrous stems, simple leaves and 5-petaled flowers. The best-known species, cultivated flax - Linum usitatissimum - is a valuable green manure and medicinal plant. Its seeds and mucilage are used to relieve constipation, excess cholesterol and menopausal disorders.